Why does Wesley Thorne consider stamp duty an immoral tax?

Wesley Thorne believes stamp duty is an immoral tax simply on owning a home and wants it scrapped or applied to higher valuations.

What financial pressures are UK small businesses like Thorne's facing?

Small businesses are facing increased costs for sugar, chocolate, and wages, alongside rising business rates.

What VAT changes does the small business owner suggest?

The owner suggests raising the VAT registration threshold, currently set at £90,000 taxable turnover.

Home / Business and Economy / Small Biz Owner: Stamp Duty is 'Immoral Tax'

Small Biz Owner: Stamp Duty is 'Immoral Tax'

25 Nov, 2025

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Summary

A couple wants stamp duty scrapped, estimating it adds £15,000-£20,000 to house moves.
The business owners cite rising costs of sugar, chocolate, and wages as pressures.
They also wish for a higher VAT registration threshold for small businesses.

Small Biz Owner: Stamp Duty is 'Immoral Tax'

Wesley Thorne, a 52-year-old business owner from near Bristol, has voiced strong opinions regarding current taxation policies. He and his wife Toni, who run an online sweet shop and market stall, believe stamp duty is an "immoral tax" that hinders property transactions. They estimate it increases the cost of moving by £15,000 to £20,000 and are urging for its abolition or a higher valuation threshold in the next Budget.

Compounding their concerns are significant cost pressures impacting their business. Thorne detailed challenges with skyrocketing prices for sugar and chocolate, coupled with increases in the national minimum wage and business rates. These escalating expenses are squeezing their profitability, making their current self-paid salary of approximately £60,000 per year feel precarious.